Living the Dutch life - September

Immerse Yourself in Dutch Culture

World Port Days (Rotterdam)

From 7-9 September 2018 you'll be able to go behind the scenes of Europe's largest seaport! For lovers of all things maritime, as part of World Port Days, this event offers a wide range of activities including harbour tours, demonstrations, spectacular stunts and a nautical market. Taking place in Rotterdam from 7-9 September 2018, this year's theme is Energize, of which you will be immersed in the energy of the port and all of it's new innovations. One of which is making the port a cleaner area.

Heritage Day

Enjoy exploring countless historical buildings and sites as they open their doors to the public. This special weekend, from 8-9 September 2018, is dedicated to celebrating Dutch heritage. In addition to having free access to monuments, there will also be a range of activities such as exhibitions, guided tours and music. The event is a celebration of Europe’s diverse cultural heritage and falls in-line with the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018. To find out what sites you can visit, see here.

Philharmonic Gergiev Festival (Rotterdam)

Enjoy this lively classical music event, celebrating the 30-year relationship between Valery Gergiev, a famous Russian conductor, and the city of Rotterdam. The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra also celebrates its 100th anniversary, so expect an all-round programme of performances across several stages, including international opera productions, major symphonic works and new Russian music.Taking place from 13-16 September 2018, this is not an event to miss! More info & tickets here.

Prince’s Day (The Hague)

An important event in Dutch politics, witness the King reading his speech from the throne on 18 September 2018. The speech, or troonrede in Dutch, mainly outlines the governmental budget for the year ahead. Prior to the speech, you can witness a royal procession and catch members of the Dutch Royal Family moving from the Noordeinde Palace to the Ridderzaal in a sublime glass carriage. Seen by many as the highlight of the day, expect a great atmosphere as thousands of people line the route. Besides being a political event, Prince’s Day offers many festivities!

Dutch Film Festival (Utrecht)

Taking place from 27 September - 5 October 2018, the Dutch Film Festival in Utrecht offers hundreds of screenings, along with premieres, talk shows, debates, workshops, parties and red-carpet events. As the largest event focusing solely on the Dutch film industry, it is an important platform for Dutch directors and actors, with the highlight being the announcement of the winner of the Golden Calf - the top prize in the Dutch film industry. Programmes are also made accessible for non-Dutch speakers.

Kite Festival (The Hague)

See the skies of Scheveningen beach fill with colour as kites of all shapes and sizes are flown for the Kite Festival, 29-30 September. With over 100 international participants showing off their biggest and most impressive kites from around the world, it is a unique spectacle. This year's theme is Sea Aquarium and will feature flying fish, crab, snails and other sea creatures. Throughout the weekend there will be kiting demonstrations, stunts and workshops for you to enjoy. On Saturday evening, watch an impressive display of kites all lit up to decorate the sky.